Academy Awards Acceptance Speech Database

LORETTA YOUNG:
[Taps three times on the microphone.] That's my heart. You know, up until now, presentations of the Academy Awards has been a purely spectator sport for me. However, tonight I, uh, dressed for the stage just in case.

But in all honesty, I suppose I couldn't expect to be more elated than I was when I heard I was nominated, because I had seen and I knew the beautiful jobs done by the other four nominees: Rosalind's vitality and her great technical skill in bringing that classic character to life; Joan's expert craftsmanship in "Possessed"; and the magic and delicacy that Dorothy McGuire brings to any role, and particularly in this one; and the superb artistry of Susan Hayward who succeeded in turning a very difficult characterization into an authentic character and a personal triumph. Yes, yes, I think my great thrill was when "Katie" was voted into that class. Course, we all know there wouldn't have been any "Katie" if it hadn't have been beautifully written and directed and photographed and... and magnificently produced by Mr. Dore Schary. For my part, I am thankful to have been in a picture that made so many people think fondly and possessively of their country, and of our industry that can give them those thoughts.

And as for you [looking at Oscar], at long last! Good night and God bless you.